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Albanese will introduce bill to combat booze cans

Laura Albanese, our MP, will introduced a private member’s bill that will increase punishments for operators of ‘booze can’s—illegal after-hours clubs. The bill passed first reading last week.

Weston has had a problem with booze cans in the past. Sketchy CD shops and late-night hair salons have been fronts for this kind of business. Illegal, of course, booze cans are also dangerous. Several shootings have occured outside them, both in Weston and around the city.

If passed, Albanese’s bill will make bail for a first offense tougher. Offenders will not be allowed to possess more alcohol that is “reasonable for personal use” and will not be able to enter illegal after-hours clubs. Her bill will add a minimum 7 day liquor license suspension, in addition to the stiff fines and imprisonment that already exist.

In her press release, Albanese said,

The Liquor Licence Amendment Act seeks to curb the illegal sale and service of alcohol and the operation of ‘booze cans’ by giving police the tools needed to deter offenders. Our neighbours want to feel safe on their streets, on their property, and in their homes. We need fewer people under the influence of alcohol selling drugs or stolen property. We don’t want bar patrons discharging firearms after they stagger out of a bar. Bar owners need to know they share the responsibility if their patrons take away a climate of peace and trust from our community